FreyrNorse God"Lord of the Vanir"

Also known as: Frey

deity

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Titles & Epithets

Lord of the VanirGod of Fertility

Domains

fertilityprosperitysunshinepeacerain

Symbols

boar (Gullinbursti)ship (Skíðblaðnir)antler

Description

Vanir god of fertility, prosperity, and good weather. Brother of Freya and son of Njord. He gave away his magical sword for love and will fall at Ragnarök because of it.

Mythology & Lore

Lord of the Vanir

Freyr is one of the most important gods in Norse mythology, ruler of prosperity, good harvests, and peace. He came to Asgard as a hostage after the war between the Æsir and Vanir, along with his twin sister Freya and father Njörðr. In Asgard he was given Alfheim, the realm of the light elves, to rule as his own domain.

The Gifts of the Dwarves

Freyr possesses remarkable treasures crafted by the dwarves. His ship Skíðblaðnir can hold all the gods with their weapons yet folds small enough to fit in a pocket, and always has favorable winds. His golden boar Gullinbursti, made of real gold, can run through air and water faster than any horse and illuminates the darkest night.

Love for Gerðr

Freyr glimpsed the giantess Gerðr from Odin's high seat Hlidskjalf and fell hopelessly in love with her radiant beauty. To win her, he sent his servant Skirnir to woo her on his behalf, giving Skirnir his magic sword as payment. Skirnir succeeded through threats and magic, but Freyr's sacrifice would prove fatal.

The Sword That Fights Alone

Freyr's sword was no ordinary weapon—it could fight by itself against giants and was destined to be crucial at Ragnarök. By giving it away for love, Freyr ensured his own doom. At the final battle, when he faces the fire giant Surtr, he will have only an antler to fight with and will fall.

God of Sacral Kingship

Freyr was especially beloved in Sweden, where he was considered the divine ancestor of the royal Yngling dynasty. His worship involved fertility rites, seasonal celebrations, and sacrifices for good harvests. Temples dedicated to him stood throughout Scandinavia, and his blessings were sought for peace and prosperity.

Relationships

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